Work Idioms

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fine words doth butter no parsnips

Meaning: Promises or flattering talk are useless without practical effort.

Example: The manager reminded the team that fine words doth butter no parsnips when they kept discussing plans but never started the work. Read more ➺


passive income

Meaning: Money earned regularly with little or no ongoing effort after the initial setup.

Example: She built passive income through online courses that kept selling after launch. Read more ➺


turn one’s hand to

Meaning: To start doing a new activity or job, usually in a skillful way even if new to it.

Example: Would you like to turn your hand to photography this weekend? Read more ➺


vote out

Meaning: To remove a person from a position, group, or role by a majority decision through voting.

Example: The board decided to vote out the director after repeated policy violations. Read more ➺


cog in the wheel

Meaning: A person who performs a small, routine role within a large system and has little power or individuality.

Example: In the massive corporation, Marcus felt like a cog in the wheel, following orders with no influence on decisions. Read more ➺


on a shoestring

Meaning: Done or operated with very little money.

Example: The nonprofit organization was run on a shoestring, depending heavily on donations and volunteers. Read more ➺


heavy going

Meaning: Difficult and slow to make progress, requiring sustained effort or patience.

Example: Negotiations over the contract were heavy going, with little progress after hours of discussion. Read more ➺


pull your weight

Meaning: To contribute equally so others are not forced to compensate for you.

Example: The team will succeed only if you pull your weight. Read more ➺


measure twice, cut once

Meaning: Plan carefully before you act so you avoid mistakes.

Example: Before approving the project budget, the manager reminded everyone to measure twice, cut once so no details were overlooked. Read more ➺


loose end

Meaning: Something that is unfinished, unresolved, or still needs attention.

Example: The project isn't ready yet — there's still one loose end to tie up before launch. Read more ➺


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